Momentum

Momentum brings together the Orange Regional Conservatorium Symphonic Wind Ensemble (SWE) and the Northern Beaches Orchestra for a fundraiser concert supporting SWE’s journey to the NSW State Band Championships.

Presented in partnership with the Northern Beaches Orchestra, the concert highlights collaboration between regional and metropolitan musicians through a program of concert band and orchestral repertoire.

Under the direction of Rachel Rule, the Orange Regional Conservatorium Symphonic Wind Ensemble (SWE) brings together intermediate and advanced woodwind, brass and percussion musicians from across the Central West. Rehearsing weekly at the Conservatorium, the ensemble provides musicians with opportunities to perform challenging and diverse concert band repertoire in a supportive environment.

In recent years, SWE has continued to grow in both size and standard. In 2025, the ensemble achieved first place at the NSW State Band Championships, a significant milestone for the group and its musicians. As the ensemble prepares to return to competition, 'Momentum' gives audiences the opportunity to support the next stage of SWE’s development.

The concert program includes

Jodie Blackshaw’s Vulnerable Joy,

Claude T. Smith’s Declaration Overture,

Arturo Márquez’s Danzón No. 2,

Jeremy Bell’s Ocean of Fire

Percy Grainger’s Australian Up-Country Tune.

Joining SWE for this concert is the Northern Beaches Orchestra, a Sydney-based community orchestra founded in 2008. The orchestra provides opportunities for both professional and amateur musicians to perform together at a high level while contributing to the cultural life of the Northern Beaches community. The ensemble also maintains a strong commitment to youth music education through its support and mentorship of the Northern Beaches Youth Orchestra.

'Momentum' brings together musicians from Orange and Sydney in a shared celebration of live performance and community music-making. All profits directly supports SWE’s championship campaign and helps the ensemble continue its growth and participation in future competitions.